Baby Quartz Crystal Cluster – Victorian Goldfields: Specimen 24

Notable Features

This quartz crystal specimen weighs 453 g and measures approximately 80 × 70 × 80 mm (Width × Length × Height). It displays a Low sulfide level, with a cluster of small to medium quartz crystals in varied colors — pink, brown, reddish, and white.

Notable features include well-formed crystal shapes, gentle pink highlights, and multicolored contrasts across the cluster.

This specimen was photographed while wet to highlight crystal colors and details. If buyers wish to achieve a similar look, applying a light coat of mineral oil will enhance the appearance.

Sulfide Level

Low – Only minimal sulfides are visible, with quartz crystal growth and coloration dominating the specimen.

See how we rate sulfide levels by visiting our FAQ section.

Mineral Assemblage

• Quartz – Small to medium crystals, pink, brown, reddish, and white

• Pyrite – [trace, if present]

• Chalcopyrite – [not evident]

• Arsenopyrite – [not evident]

• Stibnite – [not evident]

• Tetrahedrite – [not evident]

• Iron oxides – Brown to reddish staining on crystals

• Trace gold and silver (mostly refractory, with rare free gold possible)

Note: Not every specimen contains the full mineral assemblage above. Minerals may appear in varying amounts, and each specimen may only feature a subset. Each piece is unique and chosen for its visual appeal and geological character.

Geological Story

This specimen formed during the Silurian Period (~440–420 million years ago), when tectonic forces fractured submarine fan sediments in the Victorian Goldfields. Silica-rich hydrothermal fluids surged through these fractures and cooled slowly, crystallizing into quartz rather than the massive milky quartz common in Victoria.

Depending on conditions, the quartz developed as clusters of small to medium pink, brown, reddish, and white crystals, with sulfides such as pyrite, chalcopyrite, arsenopyrite, stibnite, and tetrahedrite deposited alongside. Over time, iron oxides added further color and contrast.

The Victorian Goldfields were historically mined for gold, silver, and antimony. While most of the precious metals are refractory and locked within sulfides, rare specimens containing visible free gold are known.

This specimen is not sold as “gold ore.” It is a collector’s specimen, chosen for its baby crystal cluster, varied colors, and attractive crystal shapes, and for its geological significance as a fragment of one of Australia’s most famous gold regions.